McMaster University’s Faculty of Engineering in Hamilton, Canada has developed a strong reputation for its research-focused, student-centred approach to education.
Given the program’s popularity, thousands of applicants from across Canada and around the world vie for about 900 spots in the first-year class.
With a competitive grade cut-off for applicants already in place, the admissions team observed that grades alone were not indicative enough of a student’s potential.
“We needed a mechanism to find the best candidates who demonstrated not only academic strength but other attributes such as leadership skills,” said Maria White, Assistant Dean, Academic, McMaster’s Faculty of Engineering.
“In our experience, well-rounded students are among the most successful in our program. Kira offered us a way of assessing the softer skills of our prospective students.”
After partnering with Kira to add timed video and timed written questions to their admissions process, they were able to conduct large-scale assessments of soft skills, in addition to grades and test scores, for all prospective students.
“Our experience with Kira was top notch. The team was friendly, courteous, communicative, accommodating and responsive to our changing needs.”
“The level of service was consistently good, right from our initial planning meetings through to managing prospective student applications and questions," White continued. "I have already recommended Kira’s services to other programs at McMaster. Anyone looking to change the way they assess applicants should consider Kira.”
